Jallikattu Festival, also referred to as sallikkattu, constitutes a traditional spectacle deeply embedded in the cultural tapestry of Tamil Nadu, India. This vibrant celebration is an integral component of the Pongal festival, specifically observed on the auspicious occasion of Mattu Pongal, customarily falling within the month of January.

The Jallikattu Bull Festival is the daring interaction between humans and a formidable bull, where participants strive to clasp onto the bull’s imposing hump while the bull endeavors to evade their grasp. Typically, Jallikattu features bulls of the esteemed Pulikulam or Kangayam breeds.

Origin of Jallikattu Bull Festival:

The origins of Jallikattu bull festival trace back through the annals of time, harking to the Tamil classical era, dating from 400–100 BCE. It commenced as a pursuit of the Ayar tribes residing in the ancient Tamil Nadu’s Mullai region, evolving over time into a showcase of courage and skill. As an incentive, prize money was introduced, kindling greater participation.

Cultural Significance of Jallikattu:

Jallikattu events unite communities, nurturing a profound sense of identity and shared heritage. Moreover, the sport is regarded as a means to conserve indigenous cattle breeds, as the bulls involved are often native breeds well-suited to the local environment.

Controversies surrounding Jallikattu:

Despite its deep-rooted cultural value, Jallikattu has faced significant controversies.

• Animal rights activists argue that it involves cruelty to animals, as the bulls are subjected to stress and, in some cases, harm during the event.
• There have been instances of injuries and even fatalities among participants, adding to concerns about safety.

Legal and Regulatory Measures:

The Tamil Nadu Regulation of Jallikattu Act, 2009, enacted by the Tamil Nadu legislature, outlines a comprehensive framework to ensure the event’s orderly conduct:

• Securing written permission from the respective collector, a month in advance of the event.
• Meticulously preparing the arena and ensuring its safety standards.
• Enforcing a strict prohibition against participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Mandating the provision of medical facilities and veterinary assistance throughout the event.
• Uncompromisingly prohibiting the use of sharp objects or any form of cruelty towards the participating animals.

The Tamil Nadu Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Conduct of Jallikattu) Rules, 2017, issued by the Tamil Nadu government, lay out explicit guidelines for the proper conduct of Jallikattu:

• Validation of bulls, certifying their fitness for participation.
• Enforcing a compulsory veterinary examination preceding the event.
• Prohibiting the use of irritants or any actions amounting to cruelty against the bulls.
• Imposing stringent safety measures for the protection of participants and spectators alike.

The historical Jallikattu Protests on 2017

In 2014, the Jallikattu protests were triggered by a decisive ban on the sport, imposed by the Supreme Court of India. The ban was grounded in concerns over animal cruelty and the imperative to safeguard animals. It was the culmination of relentless efforts by animal rights activists determined to put an end to what they perceived as brutal treatment of bulls in the name of tradition. Jallikattu, a daring sport, entails young men attempting to seize the hump of a charging bull, gripping on until the bull either halts or throws them off, often resulting in injuries to both participants and the bulls themselves.

The ban, however, encountered fierce resistance in Tamil Nadu, a state where Jallikattu runs deep in the cultural and social fabric. Advocates passionately contended that Jallikattu was an inseparable part of their heritage and should be allowed to persist, albeit with stringent regulations to ensure the well-being of both animals and participants.

The year 2017 saw the Jallikattu protests gain substantial momentum. Thousands of individuals, primarily comprising young students and impassioned activists, converged at Chennai’s Marina Beach and various other locations across Tamil Nadu, united in their demand for the ban to be lifted. They asserted that Jallikattu was more than just a sport; it symbolized Tamil pride and identity.

The protests, characterized by their peaceful yet fervent nature, garnered widespread support from the people of Tamil Nadu. Eventually, responding to the collective will of the people, the state government enacted an ordinance that allowed the resumption of Jallikattu, albeit with specific safety measures in place. This decision marked a significant victory for the protesters, underscoring the influential role of public sentiment.

In conclusion, the Jallikattu protests represent a noteworthy social and cultural movement within Tamil Nadu. They illuminate the intricate interplay between tradition, animal rights, and regional identity, culminating in a compromise that permits Jallikattu to continue under regulated conditions, addressing some of the concerns expressed by both proponents and critics of the sport.

Epilogue:

Jallikattu is a centuries-old tradition that holds immense cultural significance for the people of Tamil Nadu. However, it finds itself at a crossroads where tradition clashes with concerns for animal welfare and safety. The regulations put in place in 2017 seek to strike a balance, but the debate continues. The future of Jallikattu will likely depend on ongoing dialogue and efforts to ensure that cultural heritage can coexist with ethical treatment of animals and the safety of participants. It remains an emblematic example of the complex interplay between tradition, culture, and evolving societal values.

Madurai Corporation Eco Park is situated on the western side of Annamaligai at Madurai. It is a big park consuming an area of around 5.5 acres of land.

The park houses a variety of trees and plants. Out of the number of trees present here, 124 types of herbal trees are present. Public and Tourists can enjoy themselves when boating inside ECO park.

Four types of fiber illuminated types of trees are the best attractions other than the artificial fountain that is 110 feet tall. The Eco-park was developed by Madurai Corporation and is being maintained by the same from the beginning.

The public is charged a nominal entry fee to enjoy the place thoroughly. Go and see for yourself and be at peace on the bed of Nature.

Samanar Hills, mainly tell us about Jains and Jainism.

It is believed that Samanar (Tamil Jains) saints lived here. So, it was named Samanar hills (Malai). It is situated at Keelakuilkudi village that is 15kms away from Madurai.

The hill shows many inscriptions and sculptures that dates back to the 9th century BCE.

There are two main sculptures Settipodavu and Pechipallam that show Tirthankaras of Jain monks.

Settipodavu shows the image of Mahavira Jain, the last Tirthankara. Pechipallam shows eight sculptures that include Mahavira Jain and Bahubali. It is said that Jains believe that even their breath can kill organisms such as bacteria etc.

Hence, they would kill themselves by fasting and without breathing. Here, evidence of the same can be witnessed in the form of inscriptions.

Stone beds can be seen, where the monks used to rest. The main place to know about Jains and Jainism.

To have a different experience, you must visit this place.

Madurai Gandhi Museum

Gandhi Memorial Museum is situated at Tallakulam, Madurai. This place takes you back to the moments that every citizen of India should remember and should be thankful for.

Many pictures of Gandhi from his childhood to his last journey to the crematorium have been depicted in the Museum.

A few years after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, the government requested donations from the public to start a trust and construct a museum. Both poor and rich people contributed to the cause.

Here, it is believed that the last piece of cloth worn by Gandhiji is preserved with the bloodstains on it in a vacuum glass box.

Original letters written by Gandhi addressed to Narayanan Sathsangi of Devakottai is preserved here. Gandhi’s letter congratulating Bharathi, a freedom fighter too, and also a letter written to Mr. Adolf Hitler that starts with ‘Dear friend’ are also preserved here.

This place will let us understand the significance of Babuji and the sacrifice he did for our Nation.

Thirumalai Nayak Palace

Thirumalai Nayakkkar Mahal is one of the oldest palace of the country. King Thirumalai Nayak, a popular king of the Nayak dynasty, built this palace during the 17th century, in the year 1636 AD. Thirumalai Nayak, who ruled Madurai between 1623-59, built the Mahal mixing of both Rajput and Dravidian style of Architecture.

Even to this day, this palace is one of the best spots of Tourism in Madurai though the actual Mahal was four times larger than what is now. The palace was the place where Nayak kings used to reside.

The place holds such great significance. It is located at about 2kms from the great Meenakshi Temple.

Thirumalai Nayak has said to have bought architects from Italy in order to get the palace constructed.

Image Attribution : Suresh, Madurai

The Vishal De Mall is situated at Chinna chokkikulam in Madurai.

The mall is spread over 5 acres of land and has around 200 outlets overall. It was inaugurated in the year April 2012 with a car parking capacity of 150 cars.

A best place for kids to enjoy as this mall has a separate 10,000 sq ft space dedicated to kids as a play area with various activities.

The play area has bowling, dashing cars, etc. Which is totally fun to play. Cafe coffee day, separate food court, can take care of your stomach.

Jewels, Apparel shops, departmental stores will keep you occupied.

The Apple Shopping Mall is located at Azhaghar Kovil, KK. Pudur, Madurai. This too is a one-stop-shop for anything and everything. If you wish to purchase clothes, you can buy them here.

Then, if you want matching Jewellery for the clothes purchased, then this mall offers that too. Shoes, accessories, gifts, footwear and what not. The list goes on.

You can get sports accessories too. The Mall is open for all on days from 10 AM to 11 PM.

Milanem Mall is the first shopping mall in Madurai and is located at 100ft road, KK Nagar. It is spread over 90,000 sq ft ie; half acre land with five floors filled with a variety of outlets.

This is a Mall that offers anything and everything in one place. One floor completely is dedicated to eatables that offer multi-cuisine to make your own choice.

The food court offers north Indian, South Indian, Chinese etc to eat what you like. Electronics, CDs, Clothing, footwear, etc can be purchased at one place here.

Movie screens are also there to entertain people with movies on a daily basis.

So, when you visit Madurai, make it a point to visit this mall and spend time with your family and friends.

It is open on all days of the week from 10 AM to 10 PM.

Official website of Milanem Mall: www.milanem.in

Kutladampatti Falls is situated towards the northwest direction of Madurai and is about 30kms away from Madurai. It is closely located near the vadipatti village at about a distance of 8kms.

One can easily travel by bus from Periyar bus stand at Madurai. Here, the waterfalls from a height of 89ft and are considered to be a small falls.

Usually, residents of Madurai, spend their weekends here. Summer season dries up the falls. Rainy season revives the falls.

Best time to visit the place will be between September to February. Down the hill, Sri Ramanagiri Ashram is situated.

After visiting the waterfalls, you can choose to visit the Ashram too. If you love water, this place will not stop you from visiting.

The Athisayam Theme Park is the one and only theme park that is present in Madurai. This place is very easy to reach from the center of Madurai as it is just 12 kms away from Madurai.

Athisayam means ‘Wonder’. As the name suggests, this place is a wonderful place and best suited to visit with both family and friends. Established in the year 2000, Athisayam has been entertaining people with its water rides and dry park.

The water rides are thrilling and to name a few: entrance shower, Madurai Cutrallam, umbrella slide, free fall fast etc are there for you to enjoy. Dry park includes super trooper, swing chair, baby crazy river, merry go round, sun, and moon etc.

Madurai Coutrallam is the specialty of this place. It is an artificial waterfall that replicates Cutrallam with water falling from 55ft high. Play stations, separate game zones, etc. are there as kids attractions where kids have a gala time.

It has restaurants and food outlets so that you don’t have to carry food nor go hungry.

Entry fees for the adults are Rs.800, Entry fees for the children is Rs.500. The park opens for the public at 10 AM every day.

This place should be a priority on your places to visit list when you are here at Madurai.

Athisayam Theme Park Website:

Official website of Athisayam Theme Park: Athisayam Theme Park